Newark, NJ – Drivers across northeast New Jersey face near-zero visibility and wind gusts up to 40 mph this afternoon, creating whiteout conditions that could shut down major highways before the evening commute.
According to the National Weather Service in New York, a Blizzard Warning remains in effect until 6 p.m. Monday for Western and Eastern Passaic, Hudson, Bergen, Essex and Union counties. Up to 2 additional inches of snow will fall as strong winds whip existing snow into the air, dropping visibility below a quarter mile at times.
Interstate 80 through Passaic County, I-280 in Essex County and the New Jersey Turnpike near Newark and Jersey City are experiencing blowing snow and rapidly changing visibility. Slippery pavement and drifting snow are making travel treacherous, especially on bridges and elevated roadways. Conditions are expected to impact the Monday evening commute across Newark, Paterson, Hackensack and Elizabeth.
Strong gusts may bring down tree limbs and power lines, raising the risk of scattered outages across densely populated communities. Utility crews are monitoring the situation as winds continue through late afternoon.
Officials urge residents to restrict travel to emergencies only. If you must drive, carry a winter survival kit and remain with your vehicle if stranded. Blizzard conditions are expected to ease after 6 p.m., but hazardous road conditions may linger into the night.
